The Tibetan Terrier Club of America would like to congratulate Tibetan Terriers should have a heavy fall of hair over the you on the new addition to your family and wish you many eyes and face to protect them from the elements. The breed years of joy and Tibetan love. should also have a lovely plumed tail carried over the back. In addition to the breed’s square, compact look, other important The TTCA is a national organization dedicated to the characteristics include large, almost flat feet suitable for traction preservation and protection of the Tibetan Terrier and on rough ground, a good rib spring and superb balance. All would like to share the following information with you. this is accompanied by strong reach of the front legs and strong drive in the rear. History The color of the Tibetan is merely a matter of choice and The Tibetan Terrier originally came from the Himalayan accessibility. All colors are equal in the breed, and the range country of Tibet, an isolated region north of India. According is wide: from pure white to jet black, with goldens, silvers, to legend, the breed was raised primarily by the lamas in brindles, fawns, parti-colors and tri-colors. The Tibetan monasteries and was kept purebred for over 2,000 years. Terrier was never bred for color, since it was considered more These shaggy dogs were known as “the Holy Dogs of important to breed for sturdy good health, loving temperament, Tibet.” They were treasured by the lamas, who kept them as and correct type (the “look” of the breed). companions, good luck charms, mascots, and watchdogs. There is also evidence that TTs were used to herd as well as to retrieve Grooming the Tibetan Terrier articles that tumbled down the steep rocky mountains into Because the Tibetan Terrier has a profuse, often thick, double crevices. The breed is very sure-footed, and they are powerful coat, the breed must be brushed, combed and bathed on a jumpers—they would be well suited for such tasks. They were regular basis. If this is done consistently, it can be enjoyable for never sold but were given as gifts to promote good fortune as a both dog and owner. mark of great respect. The Tibetan Terrier is NOT a true terrier. Personality Characteristics of the Breed The temperament of the Tibetan Terrier can be compared The Tibetan Terrier is a medium sized, shaggy, square dog, to that of an intelligent, loving, slightly mischievous child. measuring 14-17 inches from shoulder to ground and weighing Completely devoted to his or her people (or person), the from 18 to 30 pounds. An average sized dog is 15-16 inches Tibetan becomes a member of the family very quickly. The in height and weighs 20 to 24 pounds. Surprisingly agile, the breed loves to travel and experience new places, preferably Tibetan Terrier is powerful and sure-footed in movement, as with you nearby. Perhaps the chief characteristic of the breed capable of surviving in rough terrain here as he was in his is its sensitivity to the moods and conditions of its owner native Tibet. and/or family. This factor, combined with its innate intelligence The breed has a double coat. The inner coat is fine, similar to and devotion, makes the Tibetan Terrier a remarkable cashmere. The outer coat may be almost straight or wavy. It is companion for LIFE. Even in old age, there is a delightful neither silky nor curly. childlike quality about the breed that most find endearing. They are merry companions.

© 2009 TTCA, INC. All contributions remain the property of the artist. You and Your Tibetan Terrier The Tibetan Terrier Club of America recommends spaying or neutering puppies not destined for the breed ring. Neutering either gender may result in better health in the long term and eliminates medical and behavioral problems associated with the reproductive cycle. We also recommend that you stay in contact with your breeder for guidance and to answer any questions you might have regarding the training and health of your new addition. Keeping your Tibetan active and a part of your life will guarantee a lifetime of devotion and love. For more information on the breed or to contact the secretary of the TTCA, visit our Web site at www.ttca-online.org. The Tibetan Terrier Health & Welfare Foundation was founded in 2007 by the TTCA to support and encourage health research and fund the TTCA Rescue Program. Visit the TTHWF at www.tibetanterriersfoundation.org.

Health The Tibetan is a very hardy breed and is considered long- lived with most living well beyond12 years and many to 15 or 16 years. Some problems found in the Tibetan Terrier are: hip dysplasia (HD), patella luxation (PL), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), lens luxation (LL), hypothyroidism, cataracts and canine neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (CCL/NCL). Some of these problems have been proven to be hereditary, and conscientious breeders have screened their stock and can explain these problems and their incidence. Many breeders will have knowledge of their puppies’ bloodlines and potential buyers are advised to ask questions and inquire as to evidence of any testing done on the sire and dam. After all — a healthy and happy puppy is what you are looking for.

Tibetan Terriers in the Ring The Tibetan Terrier is not only successful in the conformation ring, but also in obedience, agility, flyball rally, and tracking. They can be quite energetic, and the best way to channel that energy is to train. It takes patience and a really good sense of Club Publications & TT Items humor to work with a Tibetan. Initially, they were independent The Tibetan Terrier Club of America Inc. offers its members workers, and the trait remains, usually surfacing at the most and general public a wide range of information pamphlets and inconvenient time! They are an intelligent breed, wanting to Tibetan Terrier related items, at shop.ttca-online.org. know why they should do what you ask. The Tibetan should come with a label, “Positive Training Methods Required,” since the first harsh word will set your training back weeks. If you can laugh at yourself and enjoy a lovely, intelligent, lively companion who, most of the time, will do what you have taught, then by all means, travel the Performance trail with your Tibetan. The well-trained TT brings a unique joy and enthusiasm into the ring rarely seen in other breeds, and they are always crowd pleasers.